28/2/2008

Swansea is set for a major boost to its economy following Government confirmation it will be one of a few cities in the UK to acquire a casino licence.

The decision enables Swansea to open a casino which will operate under new legislation currently being implemented by the Government.

It is thought the decision to award a licence to Swansea will boost tourism by attracting thousands more visitors to the area. Hundreds of jobs in the entertainment industry will also be created for the city.

The Government claims the new act will give local councils the ability to better regulate casinos, offering greater protection, particularly for children and other vulnerable groups, against exposure to gambling in unlicensed venues

Swansea Council Leader, Cllr Chris Holley, said: "There are likely to be many good job opportunities created by this new type of casino."

He said the legislation under which the licence would be issued would give the Council the power to properly control the way in which the casino operates.

"At the same time, the Council will ensure better regulated gambling in Swansea in line with the new Gambling Act, which seeks to protect young and vulnerable groups, and will also ensure gambling isn't a source of crime and disorder and is conducted in a fair and transparent manner.

"We want to have a first-class leisure destination that attracts great interest and activity as well as generating real and lasting employment and regeneration prospects."